Why November 11th?

We start out in 1918 and we’re in the middle of World War I. A bit of a miracle happens and the allied forces and Germany declare a cease-fire to take place on the 11th hour, the 11th day, of the 11th month. The following year, this is declared Armistice Day. However, it isn’t until 1938 that the United States pronounces Nov 11th as a federal holiday.

Cessation to Commemoration: Key Dates

  • November 11th, 1918- A Cessation is declared between Allied Forces and Germany.
  • June 28th, 1919- The Treaty of Versailles is signed marking the end of World War I.
  • November 1919- Woodrow Wilson declares November 11th the first commemoration of Armistice Day.
  • November 11, 1920- Unidentified soldiers are laid to rest at Westminster Abbey in London
  • November 11, 1921- An unidentified American Soldier is laid to rest in Arlington Cemetary.
  • June 4, 1926- Congress passes a resolution that November 11, 1918, will be commemorated every year (Armistice Day).
  • May 13, 1938- An act was approved to declare November 11 a federal holiday.
  • June 1, 1954- Dwight D. Eisenhower signs legislation that amends 1938 act by changing the word “Armistice” to “Veterans.”

Arling National Cemetary and the Veterans Day National Ceremony

Each year a special ceremony is held at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to commemorate those who have served in our Military. At precisely 11am, the President lays a wreath at the tomb as “Taps” is played in the background. Next, a color guard comprised of members of the various branches of the armed forces begins what’s called a parade of flags. The ceremony continues with government officials that give speeches to honor our military members.

 

Veterans Day VS. Memorial Day

Many people confuse these two holidays. It’s understandable because they are both of great importance. The key thing to remember is that Veterans Day is meant to honor all who have served in the military and Memorial Day is specifically for those who have fallen while in service of their country. Veterans Day is considered a celebration and Memorial Day is set aside so that we commemorate those who have paid the ultimate price for the freedoms we hold dear.

5 Facts About Veterans Day that Everyone Needs to Know

  1. President Dwight D. Eisenhower changed the name from Armistice Day to Veterans Day so it would honor all veterans. It was originally commemorating the end of a war.
  2. In 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Holidays Act. This changed Veterans Day to thee fourth Monday in October, but President Ford signed a law returning it to November 11th in 1975.
  3. Veterans Day does not have an apostrophe because it is a day to honor all veterans. Interesting huh!
  4. Arlington National Cemetary is the final resting place of more than 400,000 military service members and their families.
  5. As of 2021, there were more than 19 million U.S. veterans!

Local Veterans Day Celebrations and Events

Nov. 11-

  • Pier Park: Veterans Day Parade. Starts at 3 pm. Read More Here.
  • Panama City Center for Arts: Sea Lab Recognition and Celebration. 4 pm-8 pm. Read More Here.

Nov. 12-

  • Clifford Chester Sims State Veterans Nursing Home: Thank A Veteran Car Show. 10 am-2 pm. Read More Here.